A review panel from the Nevada Commission on Ethics has advanced a complaint against Attorney General Aaron Ford to the full commission, according to reports obtained by the Sun.
Ethics Complaint Details
The complaint alleges Ford used his position to “benefit his private interests,” specifically by accepting more than $35,000 in “luxury” trips from the Attorney General Alliance (AGA). Ross Armstrong, executive director of the commission, stated the AGA is “largely funded by corporations, some of which are subject to regulation or litigation before his office.” The commission has been reviewing Ford’s travel for at least ten months.
The complaint further alleges violations of four subsections of Nevada ethics law, including leveraging a government position for personal gain, using government resources improperly, accepting gifts and influencing subordinates. The commission will also review Ford’s social media activity, specifically instances where his official account tagged his campaign account, which linked to a donation portal.
The commission is required to hold an adjudicatory hearing within 60 days. The next public meeting is scheduled for March 18. If the commission finds Ford willfully violated ethics law, he could be fined.
Political Implications
Ford, currently the Democratic front-runner to challenge incumbent Republican Governor Joe Lombardo in the 2026 election, has stated confidence he acted ethically. Alcinia Whiters, the attorney general’s deputy communications director, said Ford “respects the commission and is confident that it will identify that he acted in accordance with all ethical rules.”
The complaint has already become a point of contention in the gubernatorial race. Better Nevada PAC, a political action committee supporting Lombardo, has spent over $1 million on advertising highlighting Ford’s international travel, stating he is “wholly unfit to serve the people of Nevada.”
Washoe County Commissioner Alexis Hill has also announced her candidacy for the Democratic nomination, stating she offers “the best chance of beating the ethically challenged Lombardo.”
Lombardo himself has faced scrutiny from the ethics commission during his previous campaign for governor, resolving a complaint regarding his use of a sheriff’s badge and uniform in campaign materials by paying $5,000.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the nature of the complaint against Attorney General Ford?
The complaint alleges Ford used his position to benefit his private interests, specifically through accepting luxury trips from the Attorney General Alliance and using his official social media to promote his campaign.
What is the Attorney General Alliance?
The Attorney General Alliance is a nonprofit largely funded by corporations, some of which are subject to regulation or litigation before Ford’s office.
What happens next in this case?
The Nevada Commission on Ethics will conduct an adjudicatory hearing within 60 days to determine if Ford violated ethics laws. The next public meeting of the commission is scheduled for March 18.
How might this situation impact the upcoming gubernatorial election?
